Greek winemaker becomes mayor of Greece’s second city

Yiannis Boutaris was recently elected as mayor (a politically important role) in Thessaloniki, Greece’s second biggest city. Yiannis Boutaris is part of the same family that has given its name to the famous Greek wine producer Boutari (without the s). But in the 90s Yiannis Boutaris choose to go his own way. He left the family firm and launched a new winery in the region of Naoussa in northern Greece (Macedonia) under the name of Kir-Yianni.

Today the winery is run by Yiannis’ son Stelios Boutaris. Kir-Yianni has in spite of its short life take a place among the most quality conscious wine producers in Greece. We were quite impressed when we were there some while back.

In fact, there are a lot of interesting developments in the wine regions in northern Greece today. Perhaps the next new wine tour destination? Let us know if you are interested.

Related articles

• Greek wines (winebookclub.org)